Essential Canva Apps for Business Owners

Discover essential Canva apps that are game-changers for business owners, streamlining design processes and enhancing creativity. Learn which tools are truly beneficial and avoid getting sidetracked by less useful options. Get insights on creating color palettes, custom gradients, and unique frame shapes.
Jacqui Naunton // White Deer
22 Mar 2024

In today’s digital era, leveraging tools that streamline your design process is crucial for business success. Canva offers a plethora of apps to enhance your workflow. However, not all are essential for business owners. In this tutorial, I’ll guide you through the most beneficial Canva apps for your needs and discuss their pros and cons.

Step 1: Finding Canva Apps

To access Canva apps, simply open a design and navigate to the apps section on the left-hand panel. This area houses a diverse range of third-party and native apps that you can explore.

Step 2: Generate QR Codes Effortlessly

Creating a QR code is straightforward with Canva. Instead of heading to external websites, use the QR Code app directly within Canva.

  • Search for QR Code in the apps section.
  • Enter your website URL.
  • Customise the QR code’s colours if necessary.
  • Generate your QR code and insert it directly into your design.

Note: Ensure the URL is correct before publishing your design, as updates aren’t possible once finalised.

Step 3: Create Dynamic Text Gradients

The Type Gradient app lets you incorporate gradient effects into your text. While this tool is excellent for adding a splash of colour, there is a limitation on font choices.

  • Choose a font as close to your brand’s as possible.
  • Enter your text and select your colours.
  • Apply the gradient and insert it into your design.

Tip: Adjust the gradient direction and colours for a unique finish.

Step 4: Explore Text Warping with Type Craft

Type Craft allows you to warp text into various shapes, which can be useful for more creative projects.

  • Enter your desired text.
  • Select a font and warp the text to fit your design concept.
  • Add the modified text to your design.

Keep in mind the font options are not extensive, so find the closest match to your brand.

Step 5: Add Emojis seamlessly

For those who love using emojis, Canva offers an Emoji app that integrates them directly into your design.

  • Search for 'Emoji' in the apps section.
  • Choose your emoji and customise its size and colour if needed.
  • Insert the emoji into your design for direct usage.
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Step 6: Experiment with Speed Paint

Speed Paint can create animated sketches of your designs to capture attention quickly.

  • Select your design and upload it to the Speed Paint app.
  • Choose the duration and style of the animation.
  • Animate the image and insert it into your project.

Step 7: Generate Unique Waves and Blobs

Wave Generator and Blob apps allow you to create unique shapes to add a creative edge to your designs.

  • With the Wave Generator, adjust settings like pointiness and colour.
  • With the Blob apps, adjust shape and colour.
  • Add these elements to create a distinct and organic-look to your designs.

Conclusion

While there are numerous apps within Canva, focusing on ones that genuinely add value to your business can boost efficiency and creativity. Experiment with these apps to find the perfect combination for your brand's design needs. Explore Canva's app section regularly to stay updated on tools that can elevate your design game without unnecessary distractions.

Jacqui Naunton // White Deer